Heart problems can be a big risk during pregnancy

One of the first steps to take as soon as you think about becoming pregnant is to develop a plan with your doctor to reduce your risk factors for heart disease, such as quitting smoking and achieving your lowest blood pressure. healthy weightsays Wei.

This behavior can protect your heart not only during pregnancy, but for years afterwards.one study A 2021 paper published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that primiparous women who had heart disease risk factors before or during pregnancy were more likely to have complications such as pre-eclampsia and gestational diabetes. . They made her 7-15% more likely to develop high blood pressure 2-7 years after giving birth.

It’s best to address your heart health before you get pregnant, but even if you’re already pregnant, there are still many things you can do to reduce your risk.

Get tested early. one analysis Findings from the CDC Foundation, an independent nonprofit that supports the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, reveal that 68 percent of pregnancy-related deaths from heart disease are preventable. Major causes of these deaths include delayed diagnosis and missed screening. If your OB/GYN doesn’t bring this up, ask to have a heart checkup.

If you already have heart problems, consult your doctor. People who already have heart problems may need the help of a cardiologist throughout the pregnancy. You may need to change your current treatment, such as switching to a safer drug during pregnancy or taking infant aspirin to reduce your chances of developing preeclampsia.

keep moving. Staying active can help keep your weight, blood sugar, and blood pressure in check, says Young.one review Published in 2017 Scientists in Italy have shown that doing about 30 to 60 minutes of aerobic exercise two to seven days a week reduces the risk of high blood pressure during pregnancy by 46 percent.

Talk about your symptoms. Signs of heart disease include shortness of breath, chest pain, heart palpitations, and swelling of the feet, ankles, and lower extremities. “The problem is that many of these symptoms overlap with typical pregnancy symptoms,” says Young. “But if something feels new, unusual, or out of proportion, don’t ignore it. See your doctor.”

Reduce intake of highly processed foods. Fast food, soda, chips, etc. ultra processed food They are high in calories and sodium and often cause high blood pressure.Brazilian scientists have shown that Women who ate a diet high in these foods You are 48% more likely to develop gestational diabetes during pregnancy and 28% more likely to have pre-eclampsia.

Focus on fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. These foods are rich in fiber, which helps control blood sugar and hunger. It is also a source of vitamins and minerals that support heart health. potassium. Studies show that eating a potassium-rich diet can lower blood pressure, especially in women who consume too much sodium.

Prioritize your postpartum plans. Being busy caring for a newborn can put your doctor’s appointments on the back burner. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, as many as 40% of women skip postpartum check-ups. However, two-thirds of pregnancy heart-related deaths occur within the first year of the baby’s birth. Please be sure to follow the schedule for the next time.

Please share your pregnancy history. At future visits, tell your doctor about any complications that may have occurred during your pregnancy. Many healthcare providers overlook this important issue.according to investigation Of the primary care physicians published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, when assessing the risk of heart disease in women, they checked all recommended items, including asking about complications of pregnancy. Only 16 percent.